Toxic Executive Job Search Belief: I don't need to target my resume

You’re deep into executive job search or about to dive into one.

If this what you’re thinking, I want to set you straight, and help you get on the right path to landing a great-fit new gig:

“First things first. I’ve got to get my resume together.”

Today’s job search is a personal marketing campaign. Any marketing initiative begins with knowing who you’re targeting, what their current needs are, and how what you have to offer them will help them meet those needs.

You’re not ready to write your resume or LinkedIn profile until you know and can communicate:

What kind of work you’re best suited for and want to do,
Which companies or organization can meet those career goals,
What skill sets and attributes they’re looking for in candidates like you, and
How you’re uniquely qualified to help them overcome certain challenges they’re facing right now.

The content in your resume and LinkedIn profile (and any other job search marketing materials) needs to be customized around the specific value you offer specific employers you want to work for.

Step one in successful job search is narrowing your search by targeting several companies, and researching what you can do for them right now to meet their needs.

Then you’ll be able to create content for your personal marketing documents and online profiles that will hit home with your good-fit employers.

Besides, if you can’t clearly explain what you want to do next and who you want to do it for, how can you expect your network to know how they can help you reach your career goals?